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Tempted by Trouble by Susan Arden-Guest Post and Blog Tour

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“Tempted by Trouble” by Susan Arden-Guest Post and Blog Tour

TEMPTED BY TROUBLE Tour Button

TEMPTED BY TROUBLE
Author: Susan Arden
Publisher: Crimson Romance
Release Date: April 1, 2013

Tempted by Trouble

Excerpt Black and Hot Pink

“Evermore Ranch,” she read aloud.

“I hope this won’t upset your plans?”

“Would it matter? I signed a service contract that included a non-disclosure agreement. Even if I had a problem, I couldn’t tell a soul and I’ve promised you two weeks of my time.”

He chuckled softly. “Yes, two weeks to do my bidding.”

She almost choked at the thought of doing his bidding. “What the heck have I gotten myself into with you, Mr. McLemore? Exactly what type of office do you run?”
His expression changed. Sharpened. “Strictly business. Look, Dr. Rodriguez, we’ve gotten off on the wrong foot.”

“Wrong foot … the whole body is a problem, sir,” she hissed.

He smiled broadly, reassuring her. “Let’s discuss this later. This isn’t the correct time or place. Don’t you have to help the bride or something?”

“Yes. As a matter of fact, I do. I don’t know what you think you’ve contracted, but I’ll only supply you with vet services. As long as you understand that fact, there’s nothing more to discuss.”

“Well, there is. In the service agreement, there’s a provision that we need to discuss before you’re allowed access to the ranch barn and stable sites. So, either we can do it later or when you arrive in Texas. But until you and I have a little sit-down and get a few things ironed out, there won’t be any work for you to do directly. I’ve got a ranch to run, and I don’t have time to play games. I’ve already spent enough time finding a vet.” His eyes glittered and dropped to her mouth. “If you think I’m about to waste more time because you’ve got second thoughts, Dr. Rodriguez, the next communication you’ll have from Evermore Ranch will be from my attorneys. Had I known who you were before, believe me, I wouldn’t have … I’d never let the situation get away from me.”

Oh, this was rich. “Away from you. I’d say it got out of control. But that’s on your side of the table. Fine. I’ll honor my service contract. You’re right about one thing. The only thing of interest to me is treating your cattle. Once the job is done, I’ll be only too happy to leave you in peace and we can go our separate ways.”

Up close, his eyes shone sherry-colored. A muscle flexed along his jaw. His masculine scent of leather, smoke, and wood filled her head. The hard set of his mouth didn’t resemble the man from before. He’d done just as he’d promised, shutting one door, and leaving in place a man who didn’t look as if he enjoyed playing games. No this version of Matt McLemore had a locking gaze and if looks could kill, she was a goner.

“I’m glad we understand one another then, Dr. Rodriguez. I expect to meet with you tomorrow at your convenience. Our relationship will be strictly business, if that’s what got you in such a dither.”

About the Author Black and rose

Susan Arden

 

Susan Arden is a third generation Floridian. She left the field of education in 2008 pursing her dream of writing romance fiction. Currently, she writes hot love stories within the romance genres of contemporary erotic, western, and fantasy/paranormal.  Susan also writes under the name of Susan D. Taylor.
Susan currently lives in TN along with husband, two cattle dogs, two crazy cats, a gecko and a corn snake. A mother, RYT200 Yoga Alliance (registered yoga teacher), and avid gardener. You can find her on the mat when she’s not writing her next hot romance novel.

CATCH SUSAN HERE:

Website | Twitter | FB | Playlist | Pinterest |Goodreads

Guest Post-White and Fuscia

Susan: Huge thank you so much for having me over to The Reading Cafe! I’m absolutely thrilled to be here 🙂

TRC: What is a tidbit that not a lot of people know about you?

Susan: Hmmm. I’ve had a few interesting jobs. Legal secretary, bartender, then I graduated college. Biology special ed teacher.

I met my husband he’s an environmental engineer. For a while, I’d get called to do evaluations and take lab samples within the crawlspace. You know the space under a house or buildings. I’ve seen all sorts of things crawling around under there. Snakes, spiders, lizards, mice, rats, dogs, big dogs, a fox, raccoons. Did I mention snakes? One place, I would have sworn had buried bodies or something really weird was buried. Maybe only my imagination. Many times, the spaces are so small a man can’t fit. So, I’m tall but thin and was able to squeeze in through the vent. Crazy times.

TRC: What writing project are you currently immersed within?

Susan: Juggling is the more like the method of work I believe writers employ. LOL.
• Releasing: Picture Perfect, the story of Carolina’s cousin, Cynthia “Sam” Cainwright is releasing. *nail biting jitters*
• Final edits for a new genre. I’m releasing an erotica series Naughty Nights and the first book is Taken is going through the wringer.
• Writing: Don’t Tease Me, paranormal erotic romance featuring a witch and a wolf.
• Brainstorming: Shotgun Wedding. Cory, Matt’s sister’s story.
So you can see, a writer constantly has stories in various degrees of evolution. Phew!

TRC: When you aren’t writing where would we find you?

Susan: Outside in the garden. Now, it’s the perfect season for planting. And watching the return of plants. Everything from herbs to flowers to Japanese Maple. Gardens are a wonderful way to connected to the Earth and time. I share a garden with deer, rabbits, and a rather large ground hog. I can’t say they’re much help but I do like the company.

TRC: People wish: Name three people you would love to spend the day with, if you got the chance?

Susan: I’m thinking of people alive. Hard to narrow down to three. Here goes.

Well, Joyce Carol Oates of course. I’m a huge fan of hers. I think she’s absolutely genius.
And Terry Gross, host of Fresh Air from National Public Radio. She’s interviewed so many incredible people. I’d love to hear her stories. Christopher (Ronald) Walken. He’s my absolute favorite personality. I could watch him talk for hours. His mannerisms are weirdly captivating.

TRC: Do you have an author who has caught your attention?

Susan: YES!! Not one but several. I’ll stick to the one I’m presently reading. Crazy hot insanely fast, page-burning read. Madeline Shehanne. Undeniable. The way she deals with different POVs, the off-the-wall plot. It’s so outside the box, it just blows me away.

TRC: What was your favorite scene to write in Tempted by Trouble?

Susan: Oh golly. The love scenes were challenging and thought provoking. But I think the one scene I loved the most the ending when Matt is running through the airport.

TRC: Why a western? You cross several subgenres.

Susan: I didn’t know much about westerns and then my husband was set to go to Diamond Don’s a motocross race in Texas. I started researching about Texas and found, man this place is out-of-control DIVERSE. I backtracked and read some westerns and fell in love with this genre. The men are hot, fierce, and loyal as hell to their families. The women are smart, sassy, and totally into their men and families. I guess I love the idea of super close nit huge family and passionate, passionate romance.

Oh and BTW, my husband came in third this year at Diamond Don’s. YEE HAW for motocross!!

So there you have it The Reading Café. And thank you so much for this opportunity

Blog Tour Schedule Black and Hot Pink 2

4/29 – Reading Between The Wines
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub.blogspot.com/

5/01 – Riverina Romantics
http://riverinaromantics.blogspot.com/

5/02 – My Reading Obsession
http://4myreadingobsession.blogspot.com

5/04 – Urban Girl Reader
http://www.urbangirlreader.com/

5/05 – The Reading Café
http://thereadingcafe.com/

5/06 – Book Monster Reviews
http://www.bookmonsterreviews.com/

5/07 – Book Lovin’ Mamas
http://booklovinmamas.blogspot.com

5/09 – Ramblings From This Chick
http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspot.com/

5/10 – Books-n-Kisses
http://www.books-n-kisses.com/

5/11 – Romance Junkies
http://www.romancejunkies.com/rjblog/

5/12 – Manga Maniac Café
http://www.mangamaniaccafe.com/

5/12 – Romancing The Book
http://romancing-the-book.com/

Rafflecopter Giveaway Black and White

Susan is offering up a $10.00 Amazon Gift Card and a SWAG Pack (T-Shirt, Notebooks & Pen) to one lucky winner that follows the tour.

Tour Prizes Pic

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the Rafflecopter Giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour promoter or the author.

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The Interrogator’s Notebook by Martin Ott-A Review and Interview with the Author

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The Interrogator’s Notebook by Martin Ott-A Review and Interview with the Author

The Interrogator's Notebook

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca/ Amazon.uk

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 12, 2013

Norman Kross is a career interrogator who has worked covertly in some of the most dangerous places in the world. He returns to his LA home, contemplating retirement and coming to terms with his past. He may be a master at unlocking others’ secrets, but he is blind to the truth of his relationship with his wife, sons, father, and friends. Floundering as a teacher, Norman agrees to take on one last assignment, to interrogate a character actor who may be responsible for the death of a director’s daughter. The secrets he uncovers are far more terrifying than any battlefield, any windowless room, any passage in the notebook he feverishly writes in to make sense of what men are capable of behind their masks.

•••••••••••••

The interrogator’s Notebook is a murder mystery novel. The story begins with some cryptic notes from a notebook on being an interrogator written by Norman Kross. Norman is an interrogator who has worked for many agencies throughout his illustrious career. However, he had a major issue with a mission in Madrid that robbed him of his confidence at interrogation and he now teaches classes on interrogation.

Norman has spent a great deal of time away from his family and has hidden some personal issues with his estranged father his wife and sons. Due to his stress and guilt his marriage seems to be in jeopardy and his sons are distant and need their father’s guidance.

Added to these issues, Norman is asked to reenter the world of interrogation by his boss who wants to help a Hollywood director find out the truth behind the death of his only daughter. She died after a party and the official verdict was that she overdosed and slipped from a poolside chair into the pool and drowned. However, her father feels that George Stark, her sometimes boyfriend killed her.

Intrigued by her journal, Norman can’t resist attempting to get the truth from Stark. The tale is an interesting tale of a demented actor/serial killer that is so clever he never gets caught. This was right up Norman’s alley. This story is very twisted downright chilling, many issues of a dysfunctional family and danger of trying to catch a seriously psychotic killer.

Since Stark has been cleared by the police and doesn’t have to submit to being questioned about this Norman uses Stark’s ego against him to get him to consent to being interrogated. Stark agrees to Norman’s interrogations if he consents to follow some really weird rules. This makes the questioning really creepy. Ok no more spoilers!

While I like the story premise, I found the journal entries to be confusing and depressing. Norman’s constant self-recriminations and guilt were frustrating to me. The author uses many descriptive passages that while they are eloquent are also a bit rambling for my particular taste. There were several missing words or duplicated words and that with the descriptions slowed the momentum of the story at several points. From about the 4th chapter on the story becomes clearer and the pace picks up. I found this to be a decent read, but not an easy one.

Copy supplied by the author.

Review by Georgianna S.

Interview white:black

TRC: Hi Martin and welcome to The Reading Cafe.  Congratulations on the release of The Interrogator’s Notebook.

Your bio states your were a Russian linguist and interrogator. How has this particular part of your past affected your life? Your writing?

Follow Martin: Website / Twitter/ Goodreads/

Martin OttMartin: I decided I wanted to become a writer during my time in the military as I read hundreds of books and began writing in my own notebook. The profiling of people to discover the truth about them isn’t much different than what you do to the characters in your own stories.

TRC: The Interrogator’s Notebook is your February 2013 release. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Martin: This is the story of an interrogator who loses control and gets the tables turned on him in every way possible. The Interrogator’s Notebook is as much about the inner conflict of the protagonist Norman Kross as it is about the antagonist he faces in the interrogation of a lifetime.

The Interrogator's NotebookTRC: What or who was the inspiration for the book?

Martin: For years, I kept thinking about the theme of the novel: what would happen if someone who is a master manipulator and interrogator is blind to the truth of himself and his personal life. It was this conflict that made me want to write the book, and kept me interested enough to keep editing it until I felt like I reached my intent.

TRC: Are there any of your own characteristics or background history wrapped up in the psyche of Norman Kross?

Martin: I pull from elements from my own childhood and hometown: real and imagined. I feel like the concept of being powerless as a teenager is something that informed the main character, and fueled his transformation into someone who wielded power.

TRC: Have you ever been skydiving? What was your inspiration behind the skydiving scene in The Interrogator’s Notebook?

Martin: Love it! A misdirection question, just like in an interrogation. I did not have a skydiving scene in The Interrogator’s Notebook, but I am now wondering what an interrogation would be like falling from a plane…I may use that idea!

TRC: Do you have plans to turn the Interrogator’s Notebook into a series?

Martin: I am open to it if enough people convince me that they need to read another story featuring these characters.

TRC: If you gave your leading character Norman an opportunity to speak for himself, what would he have to say?

Martin: I think he’d be true to his dialogue in The Interrogator’s Notebook. He would HATE being interviewed, for one. There’s nothing a master interrogator would dislike more than opening up about himself to strangers.

TRC: Many authors bound ideas and information with other authors or family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Martin: I have a few close friends who are writers and artists, some of whom are collaborators. It’s a small and trusted circle of people with whom I am constantly sharing and refining ideas.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about yourself?

Martin: That I am important enough for people to have misconceptions about me. All joking aside, people sometimes want to put up their defenses because I’m an ex-interrogator. I am not ALWAYS profiling people.

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next ten years?

Martin:
– Making it to 10 years (with my health)
– Seeing my daughter and son attend college
– Writing a novel that I think is great
– Writing a book of poetry I think is great
– Continuing to collaborate with talented people on creative projects

TRC: If you could select one reality show in which you were one of the contestants, which show would you choose and why?

Martin: I’d love to be the villain on ANY reality show. Would be a lot of fun, I think. I actually was in a poetry competition online in a social media type of environment with monthly assignments and I got my wish. I was kicked off halfway through (deservedly so).

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Martin: On too many things. A young adult novel and a screenplay right now. And poetry, always poetry.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Martin: A few inches of height. Would help in my old man basketball league.

TRC: 😉

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food – Pizza from Pizzeria Mozza

Favorite Dessert – Warm Apple Pie and Vanilla Ice Cream

Favorite TV Show – Current: Breaking Bad

Last Movie You Saw – It’s a Disaster!

Favorite Car – My first Car, a 1973 Orange Chevrolet Vega

Do you have any pets? –– No, but I do name the snails on my front steps with my kids.

TRC:  just ewwwwwwwwww 😉

TRC: Thank you Martin for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish you all the best. Good luck with all of your future storyline releases.

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Blog Tour & Giveaway – Goddess Series by M.W. Muse

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Blog Tour & Giveaway – Goddess Series by M.W. Muse

 

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The Goddess Series
by M.W. Muse

Goddess Series banner

About the Series: The Goddess Series is about a teenage girl who discovers on her seventeenth birthday that her mother hadn’t died all those years ago, but that she is actually a Greek Goddess and Legacy is changing into one, too. Each book in this series follows Legacy through obstacles she experiences over the next year of her life, leading up to her eighteenth birthday and her final ascension…or supposed ascension. Along the way she is discovers love, betrayal, heartache, friendship, and answers to questions she never knew ever existed.

Series Spotlight Black and White

Goddess Legacy
Goddess Series, Book 1

Goddess Legacy Cover

Legacy Kore is an average seventeen year old with your basic insane crush on the hottest guy in school… rather Adin Shepard was the hottest guy in school before he graduated a couple of weeks ago. Now it’s summer vacation and she’s not sure when she’ll get to see him again. Until he shows up at her surprise seventeenth birthday party. Cue saliva glands–it’s time to drool.

But her giddiness is cut short when her guardian delivers an emotional blow, telling Legacy her mother hadn’t died when she was baby, but that she’d left for Legacy’s protection all those years ago. After the initial shock, she expects some story about how her mother was in the Witness Protection Program or something else just as crazy, but when she’s told that her mother is a Greek Goddess and that Legacy is changing into one too, she thinks her guardian needs a trip to a mental hospital. Legacy a goddess? Um, yeah. Right. And her BFF is the Easter Bunny.

While trying to make sense out of something that was impossible to believe, Adin asks Legacy out on a date. She is thrilled that her fantasy might become a reality, but when she meets the new guy in town, River, she discovers everything isn’t always as it seems, and the legacy she wants just might not be the legacy she is destined to have.

Available at: Amazon

GODDESS SECRET
Goddess Series, Book 2

Goddess Secret Cover

Legacy only thought she had this goddess thing under control. Well, as much as any other chick could have given the crazy circumstances. But when she learns the truth about her abilities, she is forced to keep a secret so powerful that she and the people closest to her could get hurt if it falls into the wrong hands.

Then there’s Venus, the goddess Adin is bonded to. And River, the god Legacy is bonded to. Do Legacy and Adin have a chance at a real relationship or are these external factors going to pull them apart? It won’t stop them from trying…or letting things heat up between them as they explore the boundaries of their relationship. Where’s the fun in just focusing on her ascension? Nothing wrong with having fun with her boyfriend.

As long as she keeps her secret…

Available at:  Amazon

GODDESS SACRAFICE
Goddess Series, Book 3

Goddess Sacrafice CoverLegacy wouldn’t let a little thing like changing into a goddess distract her from the joys of her senior year in high school…or hanging with her friends. She enjoys the dances and parties and getting closer to Adin…even trying her hand at seducing him. She’s ready to take their relationship to the next level, regardless of any bond she might have with River and any bond Adin has with Venus.

But the prophecy is still there, lurking in the background. And while Legacy is wrapped up with living her life in the now, forces are at work solidifying her future. With the damage done and the full meaning of the prophecy exposed, she’ll be forced to face the consequences…and protecting those she loves compels her to make the greatest sacrifice.

Available at:  Amazon

GODDESS REVENGE
Goddess Series, Book 4

Goddess RevengeHell hath no fury like a goddess scorned… at least that’s the way Legacy sees it. Her dreams collide into a message she did not want to acknowledge, but the implication ignites within her hotter than the knowledge of the betrayal itself. The only thing to do to cure getting mad? Getting even. And oh boy, she is going to get even!

Legacy dives into a betrayal of her own making as she teaches her lesson. But can she deliver her punishment without losing her true self in the process, or will the bitter feeling of keeping her enemy close backfire and propel her down a road she never dreamed she’d travel?

One thing’s for certain—revenge doesn’t come without a price.

Available at:  Amazon

GODDESS BARED
Goddess Series, Book 5

Goddess Bared CoverThe consequences of her actions are too much. Legacy was warned what would happen, but she thought she could outsmart it. She was wrong. How can she pick up the pieces of her life when all she now has is a void existence? The life she wanted…gone. Her heart has been ripped out, leaving her soul bared. The prophecy she’s been battling from the beginning has finally come true. And everything hurts. She never dreamed facing her legacy would be this devastating.

Legacy has known all along that everything happens for a reason. She’s been told that from practically everybody. She must find the strength to reach the stage of acceptance and move on with her life. Gods, why did things have to be this way?

But learning to accept the truth might be easier than she thinks. Her life has been filled with warnings, and one of those is that not everything is as it seems. Maybe there’s a reason that warning had come from Adin…

Available at:  COMING SOON to Amazon

 

About The Author Black and Blue
MW Muse ImageM.W. Muse is an award-winning, bestselling author…under a different name. Her alter-ego writes in adult genres for multiple publishers, but her love of young adult stories geared for the upper end of that spectrum, termed “New Adult”, made her seek a new outlet for those young adult characters swimming around in her head. She still spends most of her time living in her other reality, but is looking forward to spending more time focusing on the lighter side of love.

Website: www.mwmuse.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Author.MWMuse
Twitter: @mw_muse
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/MWMuse

Blog-Tour-Schedule-seafoam

 

 

 


4/15-  Riverina Romantics
4/16-  Alexx Mom Cat’s Gateway
4/17-  Curling Up With A Good Book
4/18-  Paranormal Book Club
4/19-  Reality Bites
4/20 – Bookish Babbles by Michelle
4/21-  Toot’s Book Reviews
4/22-  Musings From An Addicted Reader
4/23-  Scenes From A Chaotic Mind
4/24-  The Reading Café
4/26-  Over The Edge
4/26-  Night Owl Reviews
4/29-  Buffy’s Ramblings
5/01-  Mad Hatter Reads
5/02-  Book Lovin’ Mamas
5/03-  Book Monster Reviews
5/03-  LITERAL ADDICTION
5/04-  Beach Bum Reads
5/07-  United by Books
5/08-  Shhh Mom’s Reading
5/09-  Cocktails & Books

Giveaway Prizes

TOUR GIVEAWAY DETAILS: Mandy is giving away the following prizes on her GODDESS Series:

Grand Prize Package Includes:

  • New Coach Signature Stripe Top Handle Tote
  • $50 Amazon OR Barnes and Noble Gift Card
  • Autographed copy of Goddess Legacy, Book One in the Goddess Series by M.W. Muse
  • Autographed copy of Love at First Byte (autographed by Mandy Harbin)
  • Autographed copy of Entasy by Brynn Myers
  • Autographed copy of Cascades of Moonlight by Amy K. McClung
  • Autographed copy of Fire in Her Eyes by Amanda Heath
  • Author swag, including Entasy notebook, signed bookmarks, and magnets
  • Two pairs of silver tone earrings

 3 Runners-Up will receive:

 an eBook of choice from the GODDESS series.

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is not responsible for the Rafflecopter Giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the blog tour promoter.

GIVEAWAY is open INTERNATIONALLY

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Katee Robert-Chasing Mrs. Right Guest Post and Book Tour

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Katee Robert-Chasing Mrs. Right Guest Post and Book Tour

 

Guest Post black and purple
by Katee Robert

I’ll be the first to admit that when ereaders started showing up, I was screaming from the mountains that they could take my paper books from my cold, dead hands. I’m not particularly proud of that sentiment, but what can I say? I’m not good with change.

The last few years have brought a whole lot in the way of change, though, so I’ve learned to adapt. And guess what? I love my Nook like a love song. I’ll never give up my bookshelves full of the series I fangirl over, but ebooks have opened up an entirely new plane of opportunity.

You see, now new authors are only a button push away. Impulse purchasing is at an all-time high (for me, at least), which is really great. I’ve found countless authors now because I can justify spending $5 or under on a book that I might not like. It’s a whole different game from ordering a paperback book or doing to the bookstore to pick up one.

So are paper books going the way of the dodo bird? I don’t think so. There are far too many people out there like me who are incredibly OCD about their series. I don’t think ebooks cut into that, either—they enhance it. Because if I buy a new author on ebook and love their book? I’ll go buy the paperback as well so it can have a place on my shelf.

All in all, I think it’s safe to say that ebooks are here to stay, and I’m pretty happy about it.

Chasing Mrs. Right
by Katee Robert
Release Date: March 25, 2013
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Chasing Mrs. Right

Barnes and Noble / Amazon /

Roxanne Stokes doesn’t believe in love. She does, however, believe in the sexy-as-sin stranger who literally knocks her off her feet in front of a nightclub. The chemistry sparking between them takes her breath away, and she’ll do anything to ease the pain in his eyes…until she realizes the handsome stranger is her best friend’s older brother who’s just come home from war.

Ian Walser had no idea the gorgeous woman he slept with the night of his homecoming party was his little sister’s best friend—or that she’d be gone before morning. Roxanne’s touch soothes him in a way nothing else can, and he’s not ready to walk away from that yet. Not when spending time with her gave Ian a glimpse of everything he’s ever wanted.

When his sister unwittingly pushes them together, he sees his chance. But convincing a woman who doesn’t believe in love that she’s his Mrs. Right might be harder than any mission Ian’s undertaken. Good thing this soldier likes a challenge…

Read the first chapter here!

About The Author Gold and Purple

Katee Roberts

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Katee Robert, learned to tell stories at her grandpa’s knee. Her favorites then were the rather epic adventures of The Three Bears, but at age twelve she discovered romance novels and never looked back.

Though she dabbled in writing, life got in the way—as it often does—and she spent a few years traveling, living in both Philadelphia and Germany. In between traveling and raising her two wee ones, she had the crazy idea that she’d like to write a book and try to get published.

Her first novel was an epic fantasy that, God willing, will never see the light of day. From there, she dabbled in YA and horror, before finally finding speculative romance. Because, really, who wouldn’t want to write entire books about the smoking-hot relationships between two people?

She now spends her time—when not lost in Far Reach worlds—playing imaginary games with her wee ones, writing, ogling men, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

FOLLOW Katee:  Website / Twitter / Facebook / The Rabble Page

Blog-Tour-Schedule-purple

4/8/2013              Love To Read For Fun

4/9/2013              The Brunette Librarian

4/10/2013           Reading Between The Wines

4/11/2013           Ashley’s Book Nook

4/12/2013           Cocktails and Books

4/13/2013           Harlequin Junkie

4/15/2013           Ex Libris

4/16/2013           RhiReading

4/17/2013           Shortie Says

4/18/2013           The Reading Cafe

4/19/2013           Caribbean Accent Book Reviews

4/19/2013           Fic Talk

Giveaway-gold/purple

Katee Robert and Entangled Publishing are offering an ecopy of CHASING MRS. RIGHT to one lucky commenter at every blog tour stop including The Reading Cafe.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment as twitter, google does not account for email information.

3. E-book giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY

4. Giveaway runs from April 8 to April 20, 2013

 

Rafflecopter Giveaway Black and Purple

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour promoter or the author.

RAFFLECOPTER giveaway is open to USA only.

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Catching Up With Thea Harrison

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Catching Up With Thea Harrison

Thea Harrison pic
The Reading Cafe is thrilled to welcome back the wonderful Thea Harrison.

Thea is here to catch us up on her new release, Rising Darkness, which was released last week.  This is her first book in her new series, A Game of Shadows series.

Let’s talk to Thea.

 

Interview blue:blackHi, Thea.  Thank you for taking the time to revisit us at The Reading Cafe to discuss your new series, ‘A Game of Shadows’, and the first book, in that series, Rising Darkness, as well as to give us an update as to what else you may be working on.

Thea: Thank you for having me!  It’s always a pleasure to visit with you. 🙂

TRC: You have just released the 1st book in your Game of Shadows series.  Can you give us a description about the premise of this series?  How many books are you planning for this series?

Thea: The Game of Shadows novels is a two-book series, starting with Rising Darkness and concluding with Falling Light (February 2014).  This series is very different from my Elder Races series.  It’s PNR but with a strong feeling of urban fantasy, four points of view, and a cliffhanger at the end of the first book.  The relationship between the hero and heroine is incredibly strong.

Rising DarknessTRC: Rising Darkness was released on April 2, 2013.  Can you please tell us briefly about the book?

Thea: An essential part of this story is the heroine, Mary’s, journey of self discovery.  She really comes into her own by the end of the book.

I’m delighted to share that RT Book Reviews has giving Rising Darkness a 4 ½ stars TOP PICK!

Here is the official blurb for the book:
USA Today bestselling author Thea Harrison begins an all-new, darkly romantic paranormal saga, in which the fate of existence itself lies in the balance—and the key to victory may rest in the hands of two eternal lovers…

In the hospital ER where she works, Mary is used to chaos. But lately, every aspect of her life seems adrift. She’s feeling disconnected from herself. Voices appear in her head. And the vivid, disturbing dreams she’s had all her life are becoming more intense. Then she meets Michael. He’s handsome, enigmatic and knows more than he can say. In his company, she slowly remembers the truth about herself…

Thousands of years ago, there were eight of them. The one called the Deceiver came to destroy the world, and the other seven followed to stop him. Reincarnated over and over, they carry on—and Mary finds herself drawn into the battle once again. And the more she learns, the more she realizes that Michael will go to any lengths to destroy the Deceiver.

Then she remembers who killed her during her last life, nine hundred years ago… Michael.

Order Links: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

TRC: Will we learn more about Michael and Mary’s past or do you have any plans for a ‘back-story’ to their relationship? Perhaps a prequel novella?

Thea: Ooh, I hadn’t thought of a prequel novella before!  That sounds like it could be fun!  I’ll have to think about that.  Through the course of the two books, Michael and Mary’s relationship is deepened, and that includes some information about their past, and about their real natures.

KINKED.Nov 2013TRC: Your next book in your wonderful Elder Races series is coming in November, 2013, Kinked.   Would you like to tell us anything about this next book in this series? How is the significance of the title Kinked worked into the storyline?

Thea: Kinked was SO MUCH FUN to write!  It’s Aryal and Quentin’s story, and for readers of the series, you know that means they start out as enemies.  I’ve actually called it a “hate sex buddy movie love story type of thing.”

The title is significant for several reasons.  There is a touch of BDSM in it, and also, Aryal and Quentin are just so contrary.  It’s funny, with a few touches of sad – and did I mention funny??? - and full of action and feeling, and I can’t wait until it releases.

TRC: Would you like to share with us on what you are currently working on?

Thea: This week I finished the final touches to a proposal for a brand new series!  My agent is taking the first steps to shopping around for a home for it.  I’m afraid I can’t tell you any more than that, except that I’m excited to see what happens next!

And this does NOT mean that the Elder Races series is over!  This summer, my editor and I will begin discussing ideas for book seven and beyond.  I’m excited for that too!

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Thea: If you have European readers, I am happy to say that I will be attending the Love Letter Convention in Berlin in late May.  It’s going to be so much fun – I can’t wait!

Thank you, Thea, for giving us an update on Rising Darkness, as well as what we can look forward to in the future.   It was a pleasure having you visit us again.

 

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Catching Up With Shana Abe

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Catching Up With Shana Abe

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The Reading Cafe is happy to welcome back Shana Abe.

Shana’s newest release, The Sweetest Dark was released last week. She is here to discuss her first book in her new series, as well as what else we may have to look forward to in 2013

Let’s talk to Shana.

 


 

Hi, Shana.  Thank you for taking the time to visit us at The Reading Cafe, to discuss your new release “The Sweetest Dark”, as well as to talk about what you have planned in 2013.

Shana: Thank you for asking me to visit! I’m honored. 🙂

TRC: You have just released the 1st book in your new YA spinoff from your Drákon Series, The Sweetest Dark Series.  For those who may not have read this series, would you please give us a brief description of the premise of the series? If people have not read your Drákon Series, can they still start this new series?

the sweetest darkShana: Anyone at all can pick up The Sweetest Dark (the first book) and have no problems reading it alone. This new series is connected to the Drákon Series, but only loosely. It’s a whole new time period, and new characters and new setting: everything fresh and new!

The Sweetest Dark begins the story of Lora Jones, an impoverished, orphaned, self-described “slum girl” who’s way smarter and more interesting than anyone else around her. She’s always felt different, kind of an outsider, even in her orphanage; as WWI begins she’s selected as the new charity student to an extremely posh and snooty boarding school on England’s southern coast—where, of course, she sticks out even more.

But she’s resourceful and clever, and knows her way around the system. She’s doing all right, but inexplicably (at least to her) has captured the attention of two very different boys: Jesse, the school’s silent, beautiful groundskeeper; and Armand, the dark and elegant son of a duke who lives nearby.

All three of them, as it happens, are bound by magic (although of the three, only Jesse knew all along). And all three of them are going to have to come to terms with their different powers, while balancing the very tricky relationship issues that result from two boys liking the same girl.

Links to order The Sweetest Dark:
Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

TRC: How did you come up with the idea of this new series, and what made you decide to write a Young Adult series?

Shana: Even before “Downton Abbey” (lol!), I was drawn to the Edwardian era. The Drákon Series was set in the Georgian era, a time of hoop skirts and corsets and powered wigs. I enjoyed that, because I was writing about secret dragons disguised as humans, and forcing them to wear all these restrictive, sophisticated garments and jewels seemed like a delicious paradox.

The Edwardian era (the turn of the century, more or less) was equally elegant and sexy, I think. The clothing was still silks and satins and long gowns, but the style was more lovely and loose, if that makes sense. It was a time of great intellectual and scientific innovation as well. In a sense, it was the end of an age, when horses and carriages were being replaced by automobiles, and candles and gaslights by electricity. I wanted Lora to be a part of that, a girl with one foot in each time, figuring out not only her place in society but also her secret and surprising magical gifts.

Lora always spoke to me as a sixteen-year-old. That’s why the book is technically YA, although I think it’s something that can appeal to adults, as well. We never really stop growing up, do we?

TRC: Do you plan to return to your adult Drákon series?

Shana: Never say never! Fans of the Drákon Series might be interested to know that Rue, from The Smoke Thief, has a voice in this new book. Lots of people wanted to know what happened to her and Kit in the series (at one point in the story arc, they ran away!). I do know what happened to them, I swear, and maybe someday they’ll get another book. 🙂

TRC: You have the second book in this series, The Deepest Night, being released in August.  Can you give us a brief description what to look forward to in this book?

Shana: Oh, the story continues! Once you create a character as fascinating as Lora, it’s hard to let go. She’s a few months older, is slightly more secure with her powers yet is still trying to work out who she really is and who she wants to be. She’s called upon to be a hero, and she isn’t quite certain that’s a role she wants to embrace. But if she doesn’t, someone important to her will suffer and die, and she doesn’t want that, either. Eventually, she agrees to a daring rescue of a prisoner of war far, far across enemy lines. It’s quite an adventure.

TRC: Besides The Sweetest Dark and The Deepest Night, do you have any other projects planned for 2013?

Shana: I’m currently working on the third book in the series. It doesn’t have a title yet, but I’m really happy with it so far!

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Shana: Only that I’m so grateful to all of you reading this. I write these stories for me, and I write them for you. But honestly, mostly you. 🙂

Love and thanks to you all!!!

TRC: Thank you, Shana, for giving us an update on The Sweetest Dark, as well as what we can look forward to in the future.  It was a pleasure talking with you again.  We hope to catch up again in the future.

Shana: Thank YOU. You’re awesome!

If you would like to learn more about Shana, you can visit her at the following links:
Website:
Twitter:
Facebook:
Goodreads:

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Remember The Stars by Natalie-Nicole Bates-Book Tour and Giveaway

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Remember The Stars by Natalie-Nicole Bates Book Tour and Giveaway

Remember The Stars Tour Button

Remember The Stars
by Natalie-Nicole Bates
Release Date: January 19, 2013
Genre: Paranormal Romance

Remember the Starsjpg

Available from:  Amazon

For Leah Rhodes life as she knows it has just changed forever.

Waking in a gutter in the dark surroundings of her distant past, a familiar man stands out in her confusion. But Remy Moreland has been dead for years.

It soon becomes apparent to Leah that both she and Remy are trapped in a hell of their own making. Can one night together not only lead to the way out, but to love as well?

About The Author

Natalie-Nicole Bates is a book reviewer and author.

Her passions in life include books and hockey along with Victorian and Edwardian era photography and antique poison bottles. Natalie contributes her uncharacteristic love of hockey to being born in Russia.

She currently resides in the UK where she is working on her next book and adding to her collection of 19th century post-mortem photos.

FOLLOW Natalie : Blog | Facebook | Twitter

Blog Tour Schedule-yellow

4/07 – The Reading Cafe
4/08 – Close Encounters With The Night Kind
4/09 – Book Monster Reviews and LITERAL ADDICTION
4/09 – Books, Books and More Books
4/10 – Jocelyn Dex
4/11 – Salacious Reads
4/12 – Darker Passions
4/12 – Book Lovin’ Mamas
4/13 – Over the Edge
4/14 – Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews

Rafflecopter Giveaway Black and Gold

The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the Rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour promoter or the author.

Natalie-Nicole Bates is offering a $25 Amazon Gift card to one lucky winner and 3(three) runners-up ecopies of Remember the Stars

Please follow the Rafflecopter Instructions.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Nina Rowan/Nina Lane-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

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Nina Rowan/Nina Lane-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

Nina Rowan/Nina Lane

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Writing as Nina Lane: a multi-published author of elegant, romantic and often raunchy erotica. She used to write novels under the name Natasha Rostova and has published stories in anthologies such as “Best Women’s Erotica” and “Erotic Travel Tales.” Her work has been translated into both German and Japanese. She loves hot, lengthy descriptions, exotic locations, and tension stretched to breaking point.

Follow Nina Lane: Website / Facebook / Goodreads /

Writing as Nina Rowan:  Originally from California, Nina Rowan holds a PhD in Art History from McGill University, Montreal, with a specialization in 19th century French and Russian art. She began writing when she was an undergraduate at UCLA and lived a dual life as a student and a pseudonymous erotica author. She has studied Indian and Southeast Asian art and film, worked as a curatorial assistant at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and traveled in India and Europe.

A librarian-at-heart, she also holds an MA in Library and Information Sciences, a course of study that renewed a deep-seated interest in folklore and fairy tales. In addition to being an eternal student, or likely because of it, Nina possesses an abiding love for research that involves dusty, old books. She also thinks popcorn should be one of the four food groups. She lives in Wisconsin with her atmospheric scientist husband and two children.

Follow Nina Rowan: Website / Facebook / Twitter/ Goodreads

Interview yellow:black

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Nina: I’m originally from California and now live in Wisconsin (where it’s much colder!). I’m a life-long student who has spent more years in college than I would like to admit, and I have degrees in Art History and Library Sciences. I’m the mother of two young children, and I’ve always been a collector of children’s picture books which I now share with my own kids.

I love popcorn, cooking competition shows, and traveling. One of my favorite trips was a visit to St. Petersburg, Russia, where I attended a month-long writing seminar. It’s no coincidence that my heroes are half-Russian! I read mostly when I’m waiting for my son to finish his karate lessons. I still love John Cusack and follow him on Twitter. I love to bake but never do because I’d eat way too much, and I’ve recently started a work-out boot camp that is both kicking my rear end and making me feel great.

TRC: You bio states that you have a PhD in Art History with a specialization in 19th century French and Russian Art. How has your degree aided your writing career? Storyline premises and ideas?

Nina: For me art history is all about visual storytelling, so that has definitely informed my writing as opposed to my career as a whole. When studying art history, I write about things like how different artists use materials, structure, texture, lines, and subjects to tell a story. I think about why artists chose to depict certain people, objects, or moments in time, or what methods they use to portray the setting and characters. When writing and researching historical romances, I ask myself similar questions in the hopes that such details will contribute to the overall integrity of the story. Also, looking at 19th century art can definitely spark ideas, especially since a lot of my ideas start with a specific scene.

TRC: Many authors face challenges in writing or getting their books to publication. What are some of the difficulties your have faced in your writing career?

Nina: I’ve always enjoyed writing about time periods and settings that are outside the norm (ie, not 19th century British), so that’s been a bit of a challenge since those are difficult to sell in traditional publishing. I’ve also had trouble pinning myself down to a specific genre, so I think it’s taken me longer to find my “writing voice” than I would have liked. Having said that, I now have wonderful collaborators and supporters with my agent, editor, and writing partners, not to mention the Grand Central team, so that’s a testament to the fact that difficulties can lead you right where you are supposed to be.

A Study in SeductionTRC: A STUDY IN SEDUCTION (written as Nina Rowan) was your September 2012 release. Would you please tell us something about the premise of this historical romance storyline?

Amazon/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Nina: *A Study in Seduction* is a sexy Victorian romance centering on Lydia Kellaway, a brilliant mathematician, and Alexander Hall, a viscount fighting a family scandal. When Lydia challenges Alexander to a wager for a locket that contains a shattering secret, they clash in a war of resolve and hearts. Only one of them can win, but will the battle destroy their love?

TRC: Your storyline has been described as a sensual historical romance. What do you consider the differences between the usual historical romance novels and the addition of sensual to the categorization?

Nina: I think sensual historical romances are more explicit when it comes to descriptions of sexual attraction and the actual sex itself. I also think sometimes the female characters in sensual romances are more sexually experienced or in touch with their sexuality. That said, all romances center around the premise of both physical and emotional attraction, so I really think it’s just a matter of what the author chooses to emphasize or what direction serves the characters and plot the most effectively.

ArouseTRC: January 2013 saw the release of your erotic novel AROUSE: A Spiral of Bliss Novel written under the name Nina Lane. Would you please tell us something about the storyline premise?

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

Click HERE for our review of AROUSE.

Nina: AROUSE is the first book in my new Spiral of Bliss series. It’s an erotic romance series, but it’s a bit different because it focuses on a married couple struggling with sudden difficulties in their blissful, lusty relationship. Professor Dean West is a brilliant scholar of medieval history, and his wife Olivia is utterly devoted to him…until she discovers that he has kept a secret from her for the duration of their marriage. The books focus on how Liv and Dean overcome mistrust and doubts, not to mention unexpected temptations, as they fight for both their love and each other.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the Spiral of Bliss series?

Nina: At least three, which will focus on Liv and Dean’s story. If readers enjoy the series, however, there are several other characters who have their own
stories to tell, and I’d be more than happy to write them down!

TRC: Where do you believe the line is drawn between erotic fictional romance vs sensually sexual storylines?

Nina: I think erotic romance has a stronger sexual “hook” — meaning that sex is a more intrinsically important aspect of a couple’s relationship. Whereas a sensual storyline may be explicit but sex is used less as a mechanism for a character’s arc and the progression of the couple’s relationship.

A Pleasure for PassionTRC: A PASSION FOR PLEASURE (Nina Rowan) is your April 2013 and second release in your Daring Hearts series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Pre-Order: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

Click HERE for our review

Nina: *A Passion for Pleasure* involves Sebastian Hall, the second son of the Earl of Rushton. Sebastian is a renowned, affable musician who is suddenly confronted with the loss of both his career and his inheritance. Desperate for a new purpose in life, Sebastian agrees to help his brother Darius with a clandestine task. As part of this, he seeks out Clara Winter, a widow who works at her uncle’s Museum of Automata. Clara has a desperate, heart-wrenching goal of her own, and when she realizes Sebastian can help her attain it, she makes him an offer that will change both their lives forever.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Nina: Right now I have three, but there are 5 Hall siblings who all have stories to tell!

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas with family and friends or, other authors. With whom do you bounce idea and why?

Nina: I have three great critique partners (Bobbi, Melody, and Rachel) who are awesome and help me a lot with brainstorming and figuring out character arcs. My editor Selina McLemore at Grand Central is a fantastic sounding board, and she knows what will resound well with readers and what likely won’t.

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next ten years?

Nina: Interesting question! I really just want to keep writing good books about characters and subjects that interest me. If I had to pick five specific life-related things, it would be to raise my children well and see them happily in high school and college, to be a successful writer, have traveled to places I’ve never been before, stay happy and healthy, and finally enjoy cooking as much as I do eating.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Nina: I’m working on book 3 of the Daring Hearts series, which involves the youngest Hall sibling and only sister, Talia Hall. She has forever been in love with their childhood friend James Forester, Baron Castleford, and finally she decides it’s about time he knows it!

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Thanks for taking the time to interview me! I always love hearing from readers too, so anyone is free to write to me at nina@ninarowan.com

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
Pizza

Favorite Dessert
Ice cream. Hands down.

Favorite TV Show
Next Iron Chef.

Favorite Movie
The Princess Bride.

Last Movie You Saw
Skyfall. (wow!)

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Dark, no question.

Last Vacation Destination
Myrtle Beach, SC.

Favorite Flower
Lantana.

Do you have any pets?
We used to have a dwarf hamster named Harry who has since left us, but we might get another one soon.

TRC: Thank you Nina for taking the time to answer our questions.Congratulations on the release of your latest novels. I am definitely looking forward to the next instalment in the Spiral of Bliss series.

Giveaway-Black and Yellow

Nina is offering a copy of A PLEASURE FOR PASSION and a copy of AROUSE (ebook or paper-winner’s choice) for giveaway. There will be TWO winners each receiving ONE of the books offered for giveaway.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment

3. Giveaway runs from April 3 to April 6, 2013

4. Giveaway is open to US and CANADA only.

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